The bill, H.B. No. 4229, amends the Parks and Wildlife Code regarding the use of proceeds from the sale of saltwater fishing stamps. The heading of Section 43.405 is changed to "Disposition and Use of Stamp Fees," and the language specifies that the net receipts from stamp sales "may" only be spent for coastal fisheries management, rather than "shall" be spent as previously stated. The bill outlines specific uses for these funds, including the repair and maintenance of saltwater fish hatcheries, restoration of fish habitats, development of angler access projects, and the purchase of licenses under a buyback program.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the amended provisions apply only to receipts collected from the sale of saltwater fishing stamps on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Receipts collected before this date will continue to be governed by the existing law. This legislative change aims to enhance the management and conservation of coastal fisheries in Texas.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Parks and Wildlife Code 43.405 (Parks and Wildlife Code 43)
House Committee Report: Parks and Wildlife Code 43.405 (Parks and Wildlife Code 43)